2007 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1997 BMW S3
To start off, 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW S3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider. (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 367 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
Because 1997 BMW S3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 BMW S3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider (400 Nm) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1997 BMW S3 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | Spider | S3 |
Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2386 cc | 3201 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 260 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 330 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 258 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1368 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2710 mm |